The provincial government of Nova Scotia has announced a significant investment to expand the capacity of Dalhousie University’s doctor of medicine program, in an effort to address the healthcare needs of the region. As part of this initiative, the government will add a total of 10 first-year seats to the program, with five new seats being introduced this fall and another five set to open in the 2026-27 academic year. The total cost of these additions is estimated at $2.2 million.
Brendan Maguire, the Minister of Advanced Education, highlighted the government's commitment to enhancing medical training in the province. “Our government is investing to train more doctors so Nova Scotians can get the care they need,” he stated. By collaborating with post-secondary institutions like Dalhousie University, the government aims to ensure a robust supply of healthcare professionals to meet the evolving needs of the community—both now and in the future.
With these new additions, Dalhousie's Halifax campus will host a total of 99 first-year medical seats, while the Cape Breton medical campus will accommodate 30 first-year students. Out of these seats, a total of 114 will be reserved specifically for Nova Scotia students entering the program in 2025. Furthermore, the allocation includes spots for six students from Prince Edward Island and nine students from outside the Maritimes. The provincial government has assured that any unfilled seats will be filled by Nova Scotia residents, ensuring that local students have priority access to medical training.
Dr. Shelly McNeil, President of Doctors Nova Scotia, expressed her enthusiasm regarding the announcement, stating, “This is great news for Nova Scotians and for physicians.” She emphasized the importance of welcoming and mentoring new medical students, suggesting that their integration into the healthcare system will enhance access to family medicine and specialist care across the province. The expansion aims not only to improve current healthcare services but also to prepare for a future where more healthcare professionals can meet the demands of an aging population and growing medical needs.
This initiative represents a proactive step by the provincial government to address ongoing challenges in the healthcare sector, particularly in terms of recruiting and retaining qualified doctors. By increasing the number of medical students trained within the province, the government is working towards ensuring that Nova Scotians have improved access to healthcare services and a better overall quality of care.
